Chicago Bears 2021 Draft Scouting Report: BYU QB Zach Wilson

Nick Foles seems to have begun establishing himself as the unquestioned starter. Does this mean the Chicago Bears 2021 draft plans should shift away from quarterback? Not necessarily. Foles is 31-years out. While not old by QB standards, it's important to remember his track record of staying healthy isn't the best. It would be in the team's best interests to find another young quarterback they can perhaps develop behind him for the future. When thinking about hot spots for the position, BYU isn't a school that comes to mind these days. The last one to have any success in the NFL was Steve Young way back in the '80s and '90s. Then again the Bears have fond memories of a certain BYU product. So should they have eyes on rising team star Zach Wilson?

Chicago Bears 2021 draft look at Zach Wilson

Strengths:

• Arm strength isn't elite but routinely shows an ability to put some zip on the ball when needed.
• Release will probably be considered the quickest in the class. Zero wasted motion in the windup.
• Accuracy at the short and intermediate levels is consistently solid. Ball always put in a spot his receivers can get it.
• Has the legs to make things happen outside the pocket. Can extend plays or take off and run for first downs.

This play demonstrates Wilson at his best. Takes the snap but his first read isn't there. Uses his feet to move around and buy some time. Then finds an open man, resets his feet, and throws a perfectly placed dart where only his receiver could get it for a touchdown. The ball comes out fast too before the pressure can get there.

• Seems comfortable moving within the pocket. Shows good feet and sense to slide away from pressure while keeping his eyes down the field.
• Field visions stands out. Tends to locate the open receiver and get the ball out fast enough to avoid sacks.
• Has done extensive work under center. So he has intimate knowledge of pro-style offenses already.
• Held his own (for the most part) against bigger programs despite playing with inferior talent.

Weaknesses:

• Size isn't a dealbreaker but it will be a discussion. At 6'1, some teams will consider him on the shorter side.
• Deep ball will be a question mark. While he has enough arm to get it down the field, his accuracy isn't there enough.
• Decision-making could use some work. Tends to put the ball in harm's ways when he's under pressure too often.
• Has dealt with some injuries in his career. Had surgeries on both his hand and shoulder during his time as a starter.
• Coming from BYU raises questions about his NFL plans. Wilson is Mormon and could decide to go on a religious mission following college. That could last up to two years.

Pro comparison: Jimmy Garoppolo

Coming out of Eastern Illinois, the buzz on Garoppolo was substantial thanks in large part to his mixture of accurate passes, solid arms strength, and especially his lightning-quick release. It took a few years but he soon validated that belief by helping San Francisco to the Super Bowl in 2019. Wilson isn't quite as big as Jimmy G but the skillset is pretty similar and he might be a better athlete.

Projection: 2nd round

There is a possibility of Wilson sneaking into the 1st round but historically his talent level and coming from BYU suggest he is most likely a high Day 2 pick. There is no question he has the ability to be an NFL starter. The vision, release, arm strength, and athleticism are there. It's a matter of him landing in the right situation with a team that knows how to utilize those talents.